First-ever gay marriage proposal at NBA game

The team was behind the surprise all along.

Jake Conrad wanted to propose to his boyfriend, Chicago Bulls fan Michael Holtzman, in a very special way. And what better way to do that than if front of thousands of NBA basketball fans?

On December 6, Conrad made a plea to anyone on Facebook who would listen, “Does anyone know ANYONE I can contact at the Chicago Bulls offices?” Luckily Holtzman is not on Facebook.

This question was answered by a friend who connected the two and made the arrangements for the special proposal to be held at the Bulls versus San Antonio Spurs game on December 8.

A surprised Holtzman was pulled from the crowd by Bulls mascot Benny and taken to center court while the Luvabulls cheerleaders were in mid-routine to the song “Do You Love Me (Now That I Can Dance)” by The Contours.

Holtzman said yes and they became the first couple to get engaged at an NBA game.

Outsports received this statement from Bulls spokesman Ross Lipschultz:

Jake bought tickets to the game and contacted the Bulls to purchase a fan experience package to propose before the game.

The Bulls were touched by Jake and Michael’s story and wanted to make the experience extra special, so they asked Jake if he would be open to proposing during the game.

Once Jake agreed, the team worked with him to set up a proposal during a timeout involving Benny the Bull and the Luvabulls. The Chicago Bulls are honored to have been part of such a special moment for this couple.

Just as Conrad and Holtzman were winners, so too were the Bulls with a 95-91 lead over the Spurs.